This is one of the most common questions we hear from customers dealing with persistent scalp irritation. Unfortunately, there isn’t one single cause or a one-size-fits-all answer. An itchy, flaky scalp can be triggered by several underlying conditions, and understanding what’s happening on your scalp is the first step toward choosing the right treatment.

What’s Actually Happening on Your Scalp?

Your scalp is skin, just like the rest of your body. Skin cells are constantly renewing themselves through a natural shedding process. Normally, this shedding happens gradually and is invisible.

However, when the scalp becomes irritated or inflamed, this cell turnover can speed up dramatically. When skin cells shed faster than normal and clump together, the result is visible flaking — commonly known as dandruff.

What Is Dandruff?

Dandruff is defined as the shedding of large clusters of dead skin cells. These flakes often appear white or off-white and can be visible on the scalp, hair, or clothing.

Is It Dandruff, Seborrhoeic Dermatitis, or Scalp Psoriasis?

Many people who believe they have dandruff are actually dealing with seborrhoeic dermatitis or scalp psoriasis.

These conditions are typically characterised by:

• Redness and inflammation
• Thick, dry or greasy scales
• Persistent itching

Interestingly, in dermatology, seborrhoeic dermatitis and scalp psoriasis are not classified as true dandruff, even though flaking is a shared symptom.

If your scalp is consistently itchy and flaky, it is more likely related to seborrhoeic dermatitis or psoriasis rather than simple dryness alone.

The Role of Malassezia and Scalp Inflammation

Seborrhoeic dermatitis is strongly linked to a naturally occurring yeast called Malassezia. This fungus lives on everyone’s skin, but in some people it triggers an inflammatory response.

When this happens:

• The scalp becomes irritated
• Skin cells shed more rapidly than normal
• Flakes form in the upper layers of the scalp

Managing this condition requires regular cleansing, control of fungal overgrowth, and maintaining scalp hydration to prevent further irritation.

Scientifically Supported Ingredients That Help Control Flaking and Itching

Certain haircare ingredients are well recognised for helping manage dandruff, seborrhoeic dermatitis, and Malassezia-related scalp irritation:

Manuka Oil or Tea Tree Oil

Natural fungistatic ingredients that help limit fungal growth and reduce the appearance of flakes.

Zinc Pyrithione

A widely used antifungal ingredient that helps reduce or eliminate the causative organism responsible for dandruff.

Salicylic Acid

Helps loosen and remove dead skin cells from the scalp, reducing flaking. While effective, it can be drying if not balanced with moisturising ingredients.

Propolis

A natural resin produced by bees, known for its antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties. Propolis has been shown to help inhibit the growth of Malassezia and calm scalp irritation, making it particularly beneficial for sensitive or problem scalps.

Piroctone Olamine

A proven antifungal agent that helps control the yeast responsible for dandruff and seborrhoeic dermatitis.

Manuka Honey

A natural humectant renowned for its antibacterial and soothing properties. Manuka Honey helps keep the scalp hydrated, supports the skin barrier, and reduces dryness-related irritation.

PropoRelief Scalp Shampoo & Conditioner: Targeted Scalp Care

Bees Brilliance PropoRelief Scalp Shampoo and Conditioner has been specifically formulated for people who experience itchy, irritated, or flaky scalps linked to Malassezia imbalance.

The formulation focuses on:

• Gently cleansing the scalp without stripping natural oils
• Helping control fungal overgrowth
• Supporting scalp hydration to prevent dryness
• Calming irritation associated with sensitive scalps

Used regularly, PropoRelief helps maintain a healthier scalp environment while remaining suitable for ongoing use.

Try Before You Commit

If you’re unsure whether PropoRelief is right for you, sample sets are available online, allowing you to trial the range before purchasing full-size products.

Shop direct from the factory and learn more about how propolis supports scalp health here: